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Animal Trainer Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Farm Sanctuary

Intern, Animal Care

Watkins Glen, NY · On-site

$16/hr

An Animal Care intern's responsibilities can range from supporting caregivers in daily health ... training, and interactions with the communities we serve. We believe that diversity, equity, and ...

Farm Sanctuary

Intern, Animal Care

Watkins Glen, NY

$16/hr

An Animal Care intern's responsibilities can range from supporting caregivers in daily health ... training, and interactions with the communities we serve. We believe that diversity, equity, and ...

OMAHA ZOO GROUP

Jungle Intern

Omaha, NE · On-site

$15/hr

Jungle Intern FLSA Status: Non-exempt Classification: Seasonal Hours: Up to 24 hours per week for ... animal training. Interns will be provided opportunities to observe Jungle animal care staff ...

OMAHA ZOO GROUP

Hoofstock Intern

Omaha, NE · On-site

$15/hr

Hoofstock Intern FLSA Status: Non-exempt Classification: Seasonal Hours: Up to 24 hours per week ... in animal training. Interns will be provided opportunities to observe e animal care staff ...

OMAHA ZOO GROUP

Expedition Madagascar Intern

Omaha, NE · On-site

$15/hr

Expedition Madagascar Intern FLSA Status: Non-exempt Classification: Seasonal Hours: Up to 24 hours ... animal training. Interns will be provided opportunities to observe Madagascar animal care staff ...

OMAHA ZOO GROUP

Expedition Madagascar Intern

Omaha, NE · On-site

$15/hr

Expedition Madagascar Intern FLSA Status: Non-exempt Classification: Seasonal Hours: Up to 24 hours ... animal training. Interns will be provided opportunities to observe Madagascar animal care staff ...

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Animal Trainer Intern information

What types of tasks and responsibilities can I expect during an Animal Trainer Intern position?

As an Animal Trainer Intern, you will typically assist with daily animal care routines such as feeding, cleaning habitats, and monitoring animal health. You'll also observe and participate in training sessions, helping to reinforce desired behaviors using positive reinforcement. Interns often help prepare training materials, document animal progress, and may interact with visitors or clients under supervision. This hands-on role provides exposure to both the behavioral and logistical aspects of animal training, and you’ll work closely with experienced trainers and other animal care staff.

Is 22 too old for an internship?

Animal Trainer Internships are open to individuals of various ages, including those who are 22 or older. Age is generally not a barrier, and maturity, relevant skills, and a genuine interest in animal training are more important factors for success in the role.

What qualifications do you need to be an animal trainer?

Animal trainer interns typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should have a strong interest in working with animals. Relevant skills include patience, communication, and knowledge of animal behavior; some positions may require basic certifications or prior experience with animals. Formal education in animal science or related fields can be beneficial but is not always mandatory.

What are the big 4 internships?

The 'Big 4' internships typically refer to summer internship programs offered by the four largest accounting firms: Deloitte, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), Ernst & Young (EY), and KPMG. These internships provide experience in accounting, auditing, consulting, and advisory services and are highly competitive for students pursuing careers in finance and accounting, including roles like animal trainer interns seeking professional development opportunities. They often require strong academic performance, relevant skills, and early application planning.

Do zoo interns get paid?

Zoo animal trainer interns are often unpaid or receive stipends, as many internships in this field are considered educational opportunities. Paid internships are less common and typically require prior experience or specific programs; it is important to check the specific zoo's internship details. Internships usually involve hands-on training with animals, and some may offer academic credit instead of monetary compensation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Animal Trainer Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Trainer Intern, you need a basic understanding of animal behavior, patience, and a genuine interest in animal care, often supported by coursework in animal science or biology. Familiarity with training tools, safety equipment, and observation or record-keeping systems is typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and teamwork are important soft skills to effectively support trainers and ensure animal welfare. These skills are crucial for creating a safe, positive learning environment for both animals and handlers while contributing to successful training outcomes.

What is the difference between Animal Trainer Intern vs Animal Trainer?

AspectAnimal Trainer InternAnimal Trainer
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some experience or coursework in animal behaviorRelevant certifications (e.g., CPDT-KA), experience in animal training
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often in zoos, aquariums, or training facilitiesFull-time employment in similar environments with more responsibilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with training tasks, observing trainers, gaining experienceDesigning and implementing training programs, managing animals independently

In summary, an Animal Trainer Intern is a learning role focused on gaining experience and assisting trainers, while an Animal Trainer is a full-fledged professional responsible for training animals independently. Interns typically have fewer credentials and responsibilities compared to full trainers.

What are Animal Trainer Interns?

Animal Trainer Interns are individuals who assist professional animal trainers in caring for and training animals, often as part of a structured internship program. Their responsibilities may include feeding, cleaning, observing animal behavior, assisting with training sessions, and maintaining records. Interns gain hands-on experience working with animals in settings such as zoos, aquariums, shelters, or entertainment venues. This role is ideal for those interested in pursuing a career in animal care, behavior, or training, and provides valuable learning and networking opportunities.
What cities are hiring for Animal Trainer Intern jobs? Cities with the most Animal Trainer Intern job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Trainer jobs? The most popular types of Animal Trainer jobs are:
What states have the most Animal Trainer Intern jobs? States with the most job openings for Animal Trainer Intern jobs include:
Animal Trainer Intern jobs near you
Intern - Dolphin Coast - Fall 2026

Intern - Dolphin Coast - Fall 2026

Georgia Aquarium

Atlanta, GA • On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Georgia Aquarium rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 33 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

Position Title: Animal Training (Dolphin Coast) Intern - Fall 2026
Department: Animal Training: Dolphin Coast - 3400
Division: Zoological Operations
Classification: Non-Exempt
Direct Report: Intern Coordinator - Jack Finnerty
Position Summary:
Georgia Aquarium's Animal Training (Dolphin Coast) internship is designed for college students and recent graduates to gain valuable experience with common bottlenose dolphins, roseate spoonbills, and scarlet ibis. This internship is designed to give hands on experience in the marine mammal training field. Interns work directly with the animal training staff and are exposed to all aspects of the daily care and training of common bottlenose dolphins, roseate spoonbills, and scarlet ibis. This internship will give students the opportunity to gain valuable applied experience and make connections in professional fields where they are considering pursuing careers.
Responsibilities:
Interns will:
  1. Interact with and learn from the Animal Training staff about animal conditioning of dolphins for both presentation and guest interaction programs.
  2. Assist with responsibilities that directly benefit the animals, including: animal diet preparation, water sampling, exhibit/area maintenance, behavioral observations and discussions, environmental enrichment, guest presentations and interactions, data recording, animal care area clean-up, and disinfection, and assistance with animal training and handling.
  3. Play support roles in assisting with animal training and husbandry sessions.
  4. Show support as needed.
  5. Interact with guests, staff, and volunteers in a positive and professional manner.
  6. Identify all animals in the dolphin and bird exhibit areas.
  7. Understand safety procedures.
  8. Attend all seminars and take all quizzes required.
  9. To perform other duties as workload necessitates.

Qualifications:
  1. Must have a high school diploma or GED.
  2. College experience preferred with preference for animal sciences, biology, zoology, psychology, or related majors.
  3. Strong desire to gain valuable experience working with marine mammals.
  4. Independent worker and team player.
  5. Hardworking, dependable, and time efficient.
  6. Comfortable swimming and working in and around saltwater
  7. Legally able to work in the United States without restriction.
  8. Ability to repeatedly lift 50 lbs, comfortably climb ladders and stairs, handle raw fish, and kneel, squat, and stand for extended periods of time.
  9. Candidates must maintain a level of physical fitness to meet qualifications throughout their internship.
  10. Schedule availability to include in-person 5-day work weeks, totaling 40 hours including weekends, holidays, and variable shifts
  11. Strong desire to gain valuable experience working with marine mammals. Previous animal care experience is preferred.
  12. This is an experience-based, paid internship.
  13. Application Requirement: The internship application will require a resume, cover letter, and letter of recommendation. Please submit as a PDF with a file name that indicates your name and the internship you're applying for. Example: John_Smith_Internship_Resume.

Important Dates for Fall 2026 Semester:
Application Deadline: Friday, July 17th. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and may close before the official deadline.
Mandatory Fall 2026 Orientation: Thursday, October 1st, 2026.
Physical Demands & Work Environment:
The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, sit, use hands to handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls, reach with hands and arms, climb stairs and ladders, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl, talk or hear, taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color and peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to weather conditions prevalent at the time. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. An intern must also have the ability to travel by car and maintain daily contact with a living collection of plants and animals.
  • Interns are always supervised or overseen by approved Aquarium staff during their program but can benefit from demonstrating the ability to show initiative, work independently and as part of a team.
  • Shift times will vary based on the department's needs.
  • This is an experience-based, PAID internship; with a substantial focus on fundamentals; giving you the foundation to become a successful animal trainer.
  • There are limited opportunities for hands-on contact with dolphins and birds.
  • Interns will get out of this internship what they put into it. Progression will be based on proficiency, work ethic, and attitude and will be catered to each individual.
  • No jewelry will be allowed in animal areas. One athletic watch may be worn.

Commitment:
I commit to Georgia Aquarium, Inc. the following:
Mission: Georgia Aquarium is a nonprofit committed to inspiring awareness and preservation of our ocean and aquatic animals worldwide.
Vision: To be the Premier Aquarium in the World for Science, Entertainment, Education and Conservation.
Values: Respect, Teamwork, Integrity, Innovation, Leadership, Excellence, Appreciation & Inclusion.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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